The Pittsburgh Steelers have finally addressed one of the most significant needs on their roster by signing veteran quarterback and future Hall of Famer, Aaron Rodgers. After completely overhauling their QB room from last year, the Steelers were left with a glaring void at the most important position on the field for much of the offseason -- which was a topic that quickly became a major point of discussion across sports media.
Steelers.com
Steelers' Aaron Rodgers speaks to members of the Pittsburgh media.
Recently, Los Angeles Rams Head Coach Sean McVay made an appearance on Good Morning Football, where he sat down with Kyle Brandt to discuss a variety of offseason topics. During the segment, Brandt mentioned the possibility of Rodgers joining the Rams earlier in the offseason, which would've completely derailed Pittsburgh. In response, McVay shared a surprising reveal, that while Rodgers may not have been the team’s top target, the idea of bringing him to Los Angeles was definitely on the table.
"Our first priority... was let's work something out with Matthew [Stafford], and we were very fortunate that it worked out that way," McVay said. "If that wasn't able to occur, then that was definitely conversations and a possibility for us."
This offseason, the Rams solidified their quarterback situation by signing quarterback Matthew Stafford to a two-year, $84 million contract extension. With this deal, Stafford is firmly locked in as the Rams’ starting quarterback for at least the next two seasons. Like Rodgers, Stafford is an aging veteran, but he has continued to play at a high level. Notably, he led the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in 2021 and has remained a steady presence since then, making McVay confident in committing to him for the near future.
Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times
Rams' Matthew Stafford gets ready to be introduced to the home crowd.
Despite acknowledging that Rodgers was not only a potential addition to the Rams' roster, but also their second choice, McVay still took the opportunity to speak highly of Rodgers. During the interview, McVay expressed genuine admiration for Rodgers’ remarkable career and accomplishments on the field. He went beyond just professional accolades, offering personal praise as well, highlighting the respect he has for Rodgers as both a player and a person.
"I have a ton of respect for the body of work," McVay shared. "I've gotten to know Aaron and really enjoy the conversations and just the approach, the way he thinks about the game and in life, so that was a possibility."
In the end, it appears that things have worked out well for both parties involved. The Rams have secured Stafford, a quarterback they trust and remain confident in. On the flip side, Rodgers has found a fresh start with the Steelers, where he has already expressed his enthusiasm about joining the team and embracing the opportunity. Both teams appear to have landed in situations that align well with their goals heading into the upcoming season.
Now that offseason programs and minicamp are officially underway, the Steelers are fully preparing for the upcoming season. With Rodgers officially on the roster, he has begun the process of learning the team's offensive system, fine-tuning his skills, and adjusting to his new environment. Developing these relationships early is essential, especially for a quarterback stepping into a leadership role.
Steelers' Long-Term Plan Is Not Rodgers
While there has been a great deal of excitement surrounding Rodgers and his arrival in Pittsburgh, it’s clear that he is not the long-term answer for the Steelers. As the oldest active player in the NFL, Rodgers is nearing the end of his storied career. His short-term deal with the Steelers allows him the opportunity to finish his career on a high note with a respected organization, while also providing Pittsburgh with a veteran presence.
Sebastian Foltz / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers prepares to make a throw as the team works out during 2025 mandatory minicamp at the UPMC Sports Complex in Pittsburgh, PA.
In the meantime, the Steelers are using this opportunity to develop the younger quarterbacks on their roster, with Rodgers serving as a valuable mentor. As the franchise looks toward the future, including a possible quarterback selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, Rodgers offers both immediate leadership and a bridge to the next era of Steelers football.
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